Bruxism Treatments (TMJ/TMD)

• Gum Recession - Bruxism is considered one of the foremost causes of gum recession and tooth loss. It can lead to loosening of the teeth damage of the soft tissue and create deep pockets wherein bacteria will be able to cause damage to the supporting bone.
• Facial Pain - Teeth grinding can result in shortening of the teeth and also causes bluntness on the teeth. It can further cause muscle pain in the myofascial region and thereby resulting in headaches.
• Occlusal Trauma - Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can cause abnormal wear patterns on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. If left untreated, it could begin with fractures and eventually tooth loss. Restorative treatment may be recommended at a later stage.
• Arthritis - Bruxism can also lead to painful arthritis in the TMJ joints, which allows a person to open and close their jaw smoothly. It occurs in severe cases of Bruxism.

Even though there is not a known cure for Bruxism, it can be treated with the help of some devices and services.

• Mouthguards - Your teeth impressions will be taken by the dentist in Chicago before preparing an acrylic mouthguard. It plays a vital role in minimizing abrasive grinding during normal sleep.
• NTI-tss Device - It is a device which has to be fitted from our office. It is designed to cover the front teeth and thus prevent the grinding of the rear molars. It is done by limiting the contraction of the temporalis muscle present in the jaw.
• Botox® - Botox® requires an injection to be taken in the muscles, which is responsible for doing the bruxing. The injection will disable the muscle and thus prevents grinding. Once the patient can control Bruxism, our dental office can restore the visually aesthetic appearance of the teeth with the help of the crown application, crown lengthening, gum grafts, etc.